The Indian selectors might have selected the best possible team for the World Test Championship Final but it is not going to be easy for Virat Kohli to opt for the top XI. A lot depends on the kind of pitch in Southampton and if it would be green then expect some pacers to be in the squad. Here is our predicted XI for the WTC final against New Zealand:
Rohit Sharma
One of the best batsmen in the current era, Rohit Sharma is an automatic choice in the final XI. If the hitman gets his timing right on that day, no one can stop India to become the champions.
Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill showed great character in Australia with a couple of sensational knocks down under. He will probably be the first-choice opener for the mega finale which means Mayank Agarwal has to cheer his side from the dressing room.
Cheteshwar Pujara
He is the first choice in the team whenever we think about India’s Test squad. His ability to play Test cricket is very much similar to Mr. Dependable Rahul Dravid. India’s No.3 has to fire against the Kiwis in order to register an emphatic victory.
Virat Kohli (C)
Skipper Virat Kohli would bat at four in the much-awaited encounter at The Rose Bowl. Some big scores are expected from the captain this time and his battle against the pacers can’t be ignored.
Ajinkya Rahane
Kohli’s deputy Ajinkya Rahane is one of the finest Test players we have in our country. His mindset towards the longer format is clear, to remain as long as at the crease.
Rishabh Pant (WK)
Young gun Rishabh Pant has created a name of himself to be the first-choice keeper of the country. His brilliance in Australia will be remembered for so long.
Ravindra Jadeja
A pure all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is definitely a trump card in the final against New Zealand. His quick deliveries in English conditions will help his side for sure. Not to forget his exceptional fielding which makes him one of the best of all time.
Jasprit Bumrah
Perfect yorkers and accurate bouncers have made Bumrah a remarkable bowler in the last 2-3 years. His specialty is surely going to help India in the final.
Ishant Sharma
One of India’s most experienced fast bowlers will definitely play this huge encounter. Ishant has already played over 100 Tests for India and his experience will be handy for other pacers as well.
Mohammad Shami
Another experienced fast bowler, Mohammad Shami, will grab the spot in the playing XI keeping in mind his perfect seam position. The swing he can get from the pitch can be dangerous for the Kiwi batsmen.
Mohammad Siraj
If there is any bowler who has improved a lot in the past year, it has to be Mohammad Siraj. He has become a more mature bowler now especially after his heroics in Australia.
